Wilgens Sirise
President Trump has issued an executive order setting a 25 % tariff on Indian goods effective August 7, 2025, affecting nearly all export categories—including manufacturing and raw materials . However, exemptions appear for key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and energy exports, potentially shielding up to $86.5 billion worth of trade . India warns this move could result in job losses, economic disruption, and investor uncertainty, as negotiations with the U.S. have stalled .
2. Us–India Trade Tensions Escalate
Delhi is reassessing its economic and diplomatic strategy after Trump reportedly favors Pakistan in bilateral defense and energy deals, complicating strategic relations . These trade retaliations have eroded earlier hopes that Modi’s personal rapport with Trump would yield benefits, and domestic pressure is rising on the government to act .
3. Bollywood Icon Aamir Khan’s Digital Push
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is pivoting to low-cost digital cinema access by releasing his new film Sitaare Zameen Par on YouTube for just ₹100, aiming to revive dwindling theater attendance across rural India . He highlights that only 2–3 % of India’s population typically attends cinemas, and digital storytelling could offer inclusive access .
4. Security and Political Unrest
A police firing incident was reported in the Nizamuddin area of Delhi, though details remain limited as investigations are underway . In Jammu & Kashmir’s Kulgam district, security forces are engaged in a counter-terrorism operation following a shootout with militants .
5. Corporate Watch: Anil Ambani Under Scrutiny
The Enforcement Directorate has issued a Look-Out Circular for industrialist Anil Ambani in connection with an alleged ₹17,000‑crore loan fraud case .
6. Political Developments and Administrative Alerts
The ruling BJP has crossed 100 seats in the Rajya Sabha, bolstering its legislative control for the first time since 2022 . The Indian Embassy has issued a warning to citizens in Ireland after reports of racially motivated attacks in Dublin suburbs .
7. Human Interest and Cultural Notes
Kal Penn defended Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra’s choice of Western food over Vada Pav, addressing cultural stereotypes among Indians abroad .
📰 Why It Matters
Economy: The new U.S. tariffs threaten India’s trade relationships and investor confidence, especially impacting manufacturing and export-led growth. Diplomacy: Relations with the U.S. are under strain, as strategic alignments appear to shift, particularly with Trump favoring Pakistan on energy and defense fronts. Culture & Media: Aamir Khan is pushing against high film ticket prices and urban-centric access—his efforts signal a new model for reaching rural audiences. Security & Governance: Political tensions, terrorist activity, and corporate investigations highlight ongoing fragility in governance and public safety.
By. Wilgens Sirise
